By Simon Austin

Ranieri managed Chelsea from 2000 to 2004

Former Chelsea boss Claudio Ranieri says he could be interested in the vacant manager's position at Newcastle.

The Italian has emerged as one of the favourites to replace Graeme Souness at St James' Park.

He told BBC Sport: "Newcastle is one of the best clubs in England. They are a good, ambitious team and that is very important for me."

But Ranieri, who has been out of management since last February, said he had not yet been contacted by the club.

I love England because of the atmosphere and the fans Claudio Ranieri

He said: "I came from Italy yesterday and at the moment there is nothing."

Ranieri, 53, was sacked by Chelsea at the end of the 2003/2004 season after leading the Blues to second place in the Premiership and the semi-finals of the Champions League.

He then succeeded Rafael Benitez at Spanish champions Valencia but was sacked after just eight months in the job.

The Italian is now eager to return to manage in the Premiership.

"I've worked in Italy, in Spain and in England, but at the top I put England," he said.

"I love England because of the atmosphere and the fans. If possible, I would like to return to work in England."

He added: "I am looking for another good job with a club who has ambition.